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The Utah National Guard's 116th Convoy Security Company will hold a Freedom-Salute Ceremony for its Operation Iraqi Freedom veterans Saturday, July 12, at 3:30 p.m., at the Hilton Garden Inn in Sandy
At the ceremony, approximately 160 Soldiers will receive the "Freedom Salute Award" to publicly acknowledge their service in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from May 2007 to April 2008.
The award consists of a commemorative flag and case, a Defender of Freedom certificate, lapel pins and a commemorative coin. Employers of Soldiers will also be recognized at the ceremony and receive an Employer Freedom Medal and lapel pin.
The Soldiers of the 116th provided security for Coalition convoys throughout Iraq, covering hundreds of thousands of miles under dangerous conditions to ensure that troops and equipment arrived safely at their destinations.
Local Soldiers of the 116th reside in the following cities: Genola, Payson, Salem, Spanish Fork, Springville, and Woodland Hills
The group deployed in May of 2007. The 116th Convoy Security Company--composed entirely of volunteers was created as a result of a Department of the Army requirement to provide a contingent for security duties in Iraq.
Maj. Gen. Brian Tarbet, adjutant general of the Utah National Guard, is impressed with how many combat-experienced Soldiers came forward to volunteer to be a part of this new unit.
"I was surprised; a third of these folks are deploying for the second time," he said. "This is a great bunch of Soldiers here. These security forces missions are delicate and dangerous, and they are going to have to be on top of their game--and they will be. |
